Nwifuru in Minor Cabinet Reshuffle, Warns Underperforming Commissioners
Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru has approved a minor but significant cabinet reshuffle involving four commissioners, as part of efforts to reposition the state’s executive arm for improved delivery in line with his administration’s “People’s Charter of Needs” manifesto.
The decision, which was announced after the State Executive Council meeting in Abakaliki on Monday, reflects the governor’s increasing emphasis on performance, discipline, and results across ministries.
In the reshuffle, Jude Chikadibia Okpor, who previously served as the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, was redeployed to the Ministry of Rural Development. His position was taken over by Ikeuwa Omebe, who was formerly in charge of Rural Development.
Meanwhile, Paul Awo Nwobasi, the Commissioner for Primary and Secondary Education, was reassigned to the Ministry of Border Peace and Conflict Resolution, while Donatus Ilang moved in the opposite direction, taking over the education portfolio.
Beyond the cabinet changes, Governor Nwifuru issued a stern warning to two serving commissioners—Victor Chukwu of the Environment Ministry and Professor Amari Omaka of Tertiary Education. The governor gave both officials a three-month performance deadline, stressing that failure to meet expected standards would lead to their immediate replacement. He reiterated that his administration remains focused on fulfilling the Charter of Needs, a people-focused policy blueprint designed to ensure inclusive development, efficiency in governance, and improved public service delivery across the state.
The governor also approved key strategic initiatives during the council meeting, including the deployment of a 3-megawatt captive power plant to ICT University in Oferekpe, Agbaja.
This move is aimed at ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply to public institutions and select private enterprises through metered, localized power distribution.
In addition, the Executive Council endorsed the establishment of a 15-member Economic Advisory Committee to support the state’s planning and reform implementation.
The committee will be chaired by renowned energy expert, Professor Barth Nnaji, with Dr. Ben Odoh appointed as secretary. The governor emphasized the need for sound economic management and reform execution to boost investment and public confidence.
Also ratified at the meeting was the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (2026–2028), setting the stage for disciplined fiscal planning.
The council approved Ebonyi’s participation in the federal E-HEART initiative and the Business Enabling Reform Action Plan under the SABER program, positioning the state to access development incentives and technical support.
Governor Nwifuru reaffirmed his commitment to reshaping the governance structure and optimizing public service delivery. He noted that further changes may be made if any official is found wanting, as the ultimate goal remains delivering visible benefits to the people of Ebonyi in line with the administration’s promises.
